Policy and Advocacy
We help lead a coalition of advocates fighting for increased state investments in early childhood programs and services. Our policy recommendations are research-based and centered on the lived experiences of families and educators.

Advocate for Young Kids
Oregon’s Early Childhood Coalition includes more than 40 state and national organizations that work to advocate for young children and families. Children’s Institute serves as a coordinating member of the coalition and offers facilitation support.
Our partnership has made a difference: The historic passage of the Student Success Act and the newly created Early Learning Account demonstrates Oregon’s commitment to improving the early care and education of young children and their families.
Now, we must work closely to ensure that Oregon holds fast to those commitments through the health and economic challenges caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. We invite you to join us, by learning more about our collective goals, sharing our message with your networks, and working with us to remind lawmakers why early childhood matters!
The Latest
What the 2025 Legislative Session Means for Oregon’s Children
After a challenging 2025 legislative session shaped by federal policy and funding constraints, early childhood advocates are still celebrating key wins.
Advocates, Parents Call on Oregon Legislature to Protect Preschool for All
A broad coalition of parents, early childhood educators, and advocates gathered at Escuela Viva in Southeast Portland to speak out in support of Preschool for All in Multnomah County, in response to a bill that would eliminate the program.
Early Childhood is Making Headlines! | CI News Roundup
Children’s Institute, early childhood advocates, and our partners are making headlines! Read the latest about Children’s Institute in the news.